Joani Reid returns to Labour party five months after investigation into husband
Joani Reid has had the Labour whip restored after an independent investigation and said she is ‘excited’ about new PM Andy Burnham
Scottish MP Joani Reid has been allowed back into the Labour party following an investigation linked to the arrest of her husband.
Ms Reid had the whip removed following the arrest of David Taylor on suspicion of spying for China.
The East Kilbride and Strathaven MP announced on social media she has been readmitted, saying she is “excited” to work with new prime minister Andy Burnham.
She added that she had “never been” part of a police investigation, either as a suspect of a witness.
Her post reads: “With my membership of the Parliamentary Labour Party restored, I am excited to play a full part in supporting our new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, his government, and in renewing Scottish Labour.
“I have never been part of a police investigation, as a suspect or as a witness, and I am pleased that this has now been recognised.”
She thanked cross-party colleagues and constituents for standing by her and for support.
“I am also deeply grateful to everyone who has stood by me when it was politically easier to distance themselves,” the post added.
“You know who you are - thank you.”
Scottish Counter Terrorism officers searched a property in East Kilbride as part of the criminal investigation.
Meanwhile, long-serving MP Diane Abbott has also been readmitted to the Labour party after a year-long suspension.
A Labour spokesman said Ms Abbott had "apologised" following an independent process.
The MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington, who was suspended in 2025 following an antisemitism row, said she had been "issued with a formal warning".
A Labour spokesperson said the decisions about party membership had been taken "independently of the leadership and political interference".
Ms Abbott also made the announcement on social media.
She wrote: "Today, following a process conducted in line with party rules and approved by the independent review process I have been readmitted to the Labour party."
"I used wording that conflates the actions of the state of Israel with the Jewish community,” she added.
“I am deeply sorry for any hurt caused by that conflation and apologise for any hurt caused by it.
"I have been and remain a lifelong anti-racist and remain deeply committed to opposing racism in all of its forms."
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